3/17/1950 – 7/21/2022
Marie Paulette “Paula” Edmisten, M. Ed., recently of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2022, surrounded by family. While her true age was a closely guarded secret in life, the family can finally announce that she graced us with her feisty spirit for over 72 years.
Paula was born in Florida and moved to southern Georgia at a young age before eventually settling for a time in Statesville, North Carolina, with her husband of over 45 years, Lynn, and her daughters Anesia Johnson (David) and Veronica Edmisten-Schooley (Derek). Paula is survived by her loving husband and favorite cribbage opponent, Lynn, her daughters, her loving stepson, Leo Edmisten (Mendy), and her older sister, Lynnette Young (Robert).
She was unapologetic in letting others know about the greatest loves of her life, which were her grandchildren: Travis Edmisten, Hayley Edmisten (Bill Lewis), Chastity Brown (Trace Dobson), Josh Brown (Samantha), Nohlyn Brown, Liam Schooley, and Kate Schooley. Her much-adored great-grandchildren include Sawyer, Landry, Hudson, Camden, Ansley, and Brayden.
Paula is also survived by the many high school students and fellow teachers she befriended while in North Carolina and Florida. She encouraged and worried over her students as if they were her own and served as a shining example of the professionalism and dedication of our public-school teachers.
Last, but certainly not least, Paula is survived by her spoiled-beyond-belief shih tzu, Princess. All dogs deserve the adoration showered upon this particular member of the family.
Given her love for traveling and living in different locales, Paula leaves behind a list of friends and extended family in multiple states. As such, the family has decided not to have a formal memorial service. Rather, the family requests that those who wish to honor Paula’s memory, dress in their brightest colors and enjoy a meal with friends and family together in celebration of her life. Please do not wear black – she always thought that color was boring and drab, which are words no one would ever have used to describe her! Also, please leave your favorite stories or memories of her in the comments below for all to share. Her spirited personality will surely be missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to the charity of your choice or simply thank a public-school teacher for his/her service.
Paula’s big heart was only matched by her feisty personality. No one ever left her house hungry or bored. She loved fiercely and she was loved fiercely in return. It’s been said that “a mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.” Her passing leaves a void which can never be filled.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hardage-giddenschapelhills.com for the Edmisten family.
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